Did you know that around 2.3 million people worldwide have work-related accidents every year?
If you’ve recently suffered an injury on the job, filing a workers comp claim may seem easy. However, you might be surprised to learn that only a few of these claims are approved for payment.
Receiving a workers comp denial can be a disappointment after all the effort you put into filling out the paperwork.
Keep reading to learn the 3 common reasons workers compensation claims get denied.
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1. The Accident was Not Work-Related
Although most workers’ compensation claims are legitimate, some get denied because the accident was not work-related. To have a valid claim, the injured worker must be able to prove that the accident occurred while they were on the job.
If the accident occurred while the worker was not on the job, then the claim will likely be denied. There are some accidents, however, that can be considered work-related even if they occur off the job. For example, if the worker was injured while attending a work-related event, such as a company party, then the claim might be approved.
2. The Claimant was Intoxicated When the Accident Occurred
In many cases, workers’ compensation claims get denied because the claimant was intoxicated. This is because intoxication can lead to many injuries, including slips, falls, and other accidents. When these accidents happen, the claimant may be unable to prove that the injury was caused by their job.
Intoxication can also make it difficult to remember the details of the accident, which can make it hard to prove that the employer was at fault. If you have been injured while intoxicated, it is important to speak to a workers’ compensation attorney to see if you have a case. There are many hiring workers compensation lawyer benefits that you should be aware of.
3. Denial of Workers Compensation Claims Because of Pre-existing Conditions
If you have a preexisting condition, there’s a chance that you will get your workers comp claim denied. Insurers may try to argue that your condition is not work-related or that it existed before your job. In some cases, they may say that your condition is not severe enough to warrant compensation.
The claimant will have to prove that the injury is work-related and not because of their pre-existing condition. To do this, they must show that the work environment aggravated the condition. This can be difficult to do, especially if the preexisting condition is not well-documented.
Claimants who have preexisting conditions should make sure to get regular check-ups. They must also keep all documentation of their condition. This is to improve their chances of having a successful workers’ compensation claim.
Don’t Give Up, Seek Assistance from a Professional Now
If you’ve been injured at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Unfortunately, these claims are often denied.
If your worker’s compensation claims have been denied, don’t give up. There are steps you can take to appeal the decision and get the benefits you need and deserve. Talk to a qualified workers comp lawyer to find out what to do next.
Check out our other posts for tips and advice on accident claims, worker’s compensation, and other topics!
